Visitor Visa
Subclass 600 – Tourist Stream
The Subclass 600 Visitor Visa (Tourist Stream) allows people to travel to Australia temporarily for tourism, visiting family or friends, or short-term non-work business activities.
It is designed for applicants who:
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Intend to stay in Australia for a short visit only (usually up to 3, 6 or 12 months)
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Will not work or study long-term while in Australia
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Can demonstrate genuine visitor intentions and sufficient financial means to support their trip
This visa can be applied for outside or inside Australia, depending on the applicant’s situation.
Main Requirements
Intend to visit Australia
temporarily only
Have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
Meet health and character requirements
Hold adequate travel
insurance
Provide evidence of ties to your home country (e.g., employment, property, or family)
Not intend to work or study (beyond short recreational courses)
Processing Times
Processing times depend on the country of application, the purpose of visit, and completeness of documents.
Tourism / Family Visits
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typically within 2 – 8 weeks
Business Visitor
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often within 2 – 4 weeks
Costs & Fees
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Main applicant (apply offshore)
AUD 200
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Main applicant (apply onshore)
AUD 500
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Additional applicant (18+ years)
Same as main applicant fee
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Additional applicant (under 18)
Same as main applicant fee
Key Benefits
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Flexibility – grants stay periods of 3, 6 or 12 months depending on circumstances
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Allows single or multiple entries
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Enables you to visit relatives or friends, tour Australia, or attend short business meetings
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May be a good option for those wishing to visit during special occasions (e.g., Christmas, weddings, or family gatherings)
Process
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Prepare Documents – Passport, bank statements, employment proof, invitation (if any), travel itinerary.
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Submit Application Online via the Department of Home Affairs ImmiAccount portal.
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Do Health and Character Checks (if requested).
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Wait for a Decision – you will receive notification by email.
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Travel to Australia once the visa is granted and within the specified period.
Common Scenarios & Q&A
01. Can I extend my stay while I am in Australia?
If your visa has the condition 'No Further Stay (8503)', you cannot extend or apply for another visa inside Australia. If there’s no such condition, you may apply for another visa before your current visa expires.
02. Can I work on a Visitor Visa?
No. You cannot work or provide services to a business in Australia while holding this visa.
03. Can I study while visiting?
Yes, but only for a short course of up to 3 months.
04. Do I need an invitation letter?
If you are visiting family or friends, it’s helpful to include an invitation letter from your Australian contact along with their passport copy, visa, or proof of status.
05. How do I show I have enough funds?
Provide recent bank statements, payslips, tax documents, or evidence of sponsorship showing you can cover flights, accommodation, and daily expenses.
Skills Assessment
